So you would like to buy a new computer, without getting ripped off? Wouldn't we all. There are a few simple processes to go through to buy a computer. You don't have to be a Tech Guru to buy a computer, and you don't have to go to boot camp to learn how to buy one. It's simple. The only key is to have patience and DON'T ACT DUMB!

Choosing the computer that's right for you

Since you are ready to buy a computer, you need to choose one that's right for you. I will help you identify what you need. Ask yourself these questions:

1. How much space do I need? To answer this, you need to figure out how many games, programs, etc, will be installed on your computer. Are you an avid gamer? Or, do you just use the internet? I would recommend that you purchase a computer that contains 120-160GB of space. This should last you a period of about 3 years, unless you love to game.

2. How much RAM do I need? You may have no clue what this is, that's OK. Do you need to surf the internet and use Microsoft Word at the same time? Do you need to create two book reports at once? Do you need to have ten "windows" open at the same time? For Windows XP, I suggest 512MB minimum. For Windows Vista I suggest at least 1GB minimum. Anything above the minimums will simply give you more performance, but at a higher cost.

3. CD, CD Burner, DVD Reader? This is very simple. Do you like to "burn" CD's (make copies of them)? Do you like to watch movies on your computer? Do you want to make your own movies on your computer? This one is up to you. At minimum I suggest a CD Burner, so you can make backups of important files. A combo drive (CD burner/DVD Player) lets you burn CDs and watch DVDs. A DVD Burner lets you make DVD movies or larger file backups. It's more expensive, but you could get two drives. For example, a CD Burner and a CD Reader, (or a DVD Burner and a DVD Reader), will let you make disc-to-disc copies. Remember that DVD drives can also read CD's, so a single or dual DVD drive setup would also work with all of your CD discs.

4. Video Memory? What's this? For the average person who only plays 5-10 games, 128MB of video memory is perfect for you. If you play more than 10 games, 256MB would be recommended. Anything higher is better, but more expensive.

5. Processor (CPU) Speed? What processor speed means is how fast you want your computer to operate. We ALL want it to operate fast. I would recommend at least 2.8 Ghz minimum, anything faster is better and costs more. For heavy gaming, video editing, etc, you should consider a Dual-Core processor. A dual-core is basically two processors on one chip, they share the load and compute about 1.5 times faster than a regular (single-core) CPU. Dual-core CPUs are more expensive, but well worth the cost.

Sales & Comparison Shop

As soon as you see an advertisement on the TV, don't go picking up the phone. Wait. Check for the latest sales and deals. There will always be plenty to pick from.

Get a Dell, Gateway, HP, Compaq, etc. Yes, their support is usually poor and hard to understand (most support staff is from India), but they are better than the off-the-wall brands like eMachines. There are also many custom computer builders who are quite reputable, but custom-building is usually more expensive. Pre-built machines are easier to get support for and ship much quicker.

Don't buy one from Wal-Mart, Sam's Club, etc. You'll find that most of these machines are usually the lowest end models and are obsolete the day you buy them. Most of them are also difficult to upgrade.

If you can, buy the brand of computer you want by calling the maker direct (Dell, Gateway, etc). If you buy a new computer from Radio Shack, Best Buy, or Staples, it's likely to be quite expensive, they'll charge you the manufacturer's suggested maximum retail price. If you don't buy direct, then buy online instead. Usually buying online, the cost of the computer plus shipping is cheaper than buying one off the shelf in any retail store.

Don't Act Dumb! Yes. I am telling you to don't act dumb when you want to purchase a computer. Especially if you are going to purchase a computer over the phone. If you don't act like you know what you are talking about, you're going to get ripped off! It's that simple.

Stay Within the Budget. Set a certain amount of money aside to purchase a computer and don't go over that amount. You will always find a computer within a reasonable price range. A good point in which to start shopping for a computer is when you have $650.00 set aside. I would keep looking to find a computer within that price range. But if you can come up with $1000, this will get you a loaded computer that should last you a good 5 to 7 years, and it will probably be quite upgradeable.

Buy A NEW Computer. This is very important. Don't buy a used computer, unless it is necessary. You will always be able to find a good deal on a new computer. New computers last longer than previously owned. You will be much happier with a new computer rather than an old one. If you simply cannot afford a new computer right now, then save up, and in the meantime check out your current computer to see if an affordable upgrade can be added (like more memory or a better video card) to give you better performance until you get a new one.

That's it.

It's not that hard. If you can do what I talked about, you will do just fine. Just remember to watch for big sales, especially the day after Thanksgiving. You will find plenty of great deals. You CAN stay on top of the game. So go ahead, start today! Buy that new computer that you always wanted (without exceeding your budget). Good luck!